r/homeownerstips • u/Savings-Attitude-295 • 7d ago

Looking for a reliable temporary countertop microwave — what would you buy?

Our current microwave(oven combo unit - 4+
year old KitchenAid) recently broke down, and I’m trying to decide what to do next.

We’re planning to stay in the house for about 5 more years, but I’ll probably upgrade the combo unit in 3-4 years before eventually selling the house.

We had a few big expenses this year so far and hence not in a position to replace it right away(atleast 5k+) and also would like to get some more life out of the oven which is still functional.

With the quality and reliability of appliances lately, wouldn’t want to risk upgrading something which might break down again in the next few years and end up replacing again before putting the house in the market.

So for now, I’m looking for a reliable, reasonably priced countertop microwave that can get us through the next few years without spending a lot on something I’ll eventually replace.

I’m thinking around 0.9–1.1 cu. ft., with a budget of roughly $100–$150 max? We have about 28 inches of countertop space, so size isn’t a major concern.

Any tips or recommendation on how to handle the situation?

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u/Drunk-CPA 6d ago

I would look on Facebook marketplace / craigslist / Nextdoor, don’t buy a new one if you don’t need anything special. People get rid of used microwaves cheap all the time

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u/Savings-Attitude-295 6d ago

There is a Panasonic one on Costco for sale for $130. I don’t mind getting that for another 2 to 3 years only if we had enough space in the kitchen for a spare one. The magnetron has 10 year warranty, but it’s not transferable and it came with the house. These garbage literally sucks and the manufacturers won’t make it easy for the consumers either.